Celtic made some significant strides in the last two weeks of the transfer window as they brought in plenty of cover to their squad. Quite a few players are on loan so that might be slightly disappointing as the club would again have to dive in the transfer window next season to replace them. However, they are atleast well prepared with numbers for this season.
Injuries haven’t been kind to Neil Lennon of late even though the Bhoys have made a perfect start in the domestic league. The Hoops played with an almost makeshift backline against Rangers, but they still managed to come out triumphant. Latest reports from the Herald suggests that Kristoffer Ajer could be out for further two weeks as he recently pulled out of the Norwegian squad. This could mean that the defender could miss Celtic’s all-important Europa League clash against Rennes.
It was believed that Ajer was much closer to being fit as Neil Lennon insisted that he was in contention to be available for the Old Firm derby. However, the latest groin injury might have set the defender back for few more weeks.
Why is Ajer important at the back?
Ajer has been one of the mainstays of Celtic’s backline since Lennon took over. The defender had even managed to establish himself under Brendan Rodgers. Ajer’s versatility to play at right-back helped Lennon in the European qualifier games as the club didn’t have any right back at one point of time after the departure of Mikael Lustig.
The 21-year-old is strong and committed in his challenges, but what makes him stand out is his composure and on the ball ability. Ajer was even linked with a move to Leicester City this summer so that in itself is a testament to how good he has become at just 21. Even with big summer signing Christopher Jullien coming in, we expect Ajer to be the first choice defender for Lennon after his recent showings.
How can Lennon replace him?
The good thing for Lennon is that because of the international break, Ajer might only miss a few games. However, one of them could be a crucial one in the Europa League. Celtic open their campaign after the break against Hamilton Academical.
Jozo Simunovic might become available by that time, and he might be drafted in the lineup for the games just after the international break. If not then Lennon will have to rely on the partnership of Bitton and Jullien who did well in the Old Firm derby. Hatem Abd Elhamed is also an interesting choice as he is predominantly a centre back. With Mortiz Bauer coming in at right-back, he could slot in at the heart of the defence as well.
